The Clothes Make the Transman?

[Girl_On_Fire]

I saw this on Facebook and thought I would share it here:

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/01/nyregion/custom-suits-to-make-transgender-and-female-clients-feel-handsome.html?_r=1&

I'm interested to know from the trans guys how the way you dress makes you feel in public. What do you prefer to wear? Do you purchase custom clothing like the kind mentioned in the link or do you make it work with men's clothes?

I thought this thread topic might prompt a really insightful discussion.

(I know I'm a femme starting this thread but I do love trans guys and male-identified butches so I hope you don't mind.) :blush:

[DapperButch]

Great idea for a thread. Thank you for the information about this company. I have to say that the first thing that came to mind was that even though butch owned companies (a couple mentioned in the article), have been around longer than this one, this CIS MALE'S company is the one that was actually acknowledged and made the nytimes. I am sure part of the reason for this is that it was an already established company, but.....anyway, not surprising.

SO... like I said, great thread!

I am fortunate that my physique allows me to purchase men's clothing off the rack. Both bottoms and tops.

Sometimes I have problems with some dress shirts being very slightly too long in the arms, but not enough of a problem to have to go to a tailor. Actually, in thinking about it, they are probably the "correct" length, but since I wear dress shirts without jackets to work, I am more concerned with how they fit without a jacket.

I only have one suit, that was given to me by a friend, and it fits perfectly. Otherwise, I have no experience with suits. I don't know if I am just lucky with this one, or if most men's suits would fit me this well. My shoulders are broad for a female, but I would guess that there would at least need to be some tailoring around there (?). My suit does not have a vest with it. I am sure that prior to my top surgery a fitted vest would have needed some adjustment to fit.

As an aside, there is a butch clothing thread, but I won't link it here, so that your thread can run in a "fresh" direction.

[DapperButch]

It would be interesting to hear the experiences of FTM/transguys who are on testosterone. I would like to hear how the fat redistribution away from their hips may have improved their ability to buy their pants "off the rack" (if at all).

[Bad_boi]

Button downs over T shirts will save your life!

[Linus]

It would be interesting to hear the experiences of FTM/transguys who are on testosterone. I would like to hear how the fat redistribution away from their hips may have improved their ability to buy their pants "off the rack" (if at all).

For me this is a yes and no question. Things fit better when buying off the rack but my "portly" size still makes it somewhat difficult and still require a bit of tailoring. I don't tend to wear suits although a good single breasted suit with a vest apparently makes me look dashing. I just don't need it day-to-day at home (when I work from home, shorts are the suit of the day) or when on the road (polo and casual slacks or dark jeans work).

Button downs over T shirts will save your life!

?? Not sure I understand the comment. I think dressing appropriately for the audience in question matters more.

[GraffitiBoi]

It would be interesting to hear the experiences of FTM/transguys who are on testosterone. I would like to hear how the fat redistribution away from their hips may have improved their ability to buy their pants "off the rack" (if at all).

I had a much easier time buying off the rack once on T. After I had top surgery buying off the rack became pretty simple. I'm about 5' 5" or so, so some shirts are a little long in the sleeve, but it's not much of a problem.

[Liam]

I have been purchasing off the rack clothing for men, for over 40 years, without the need to go to a tailor. I have been on T for over a year, and the redistribution of fat has changed the drape of my pants, in that there is more room in the thigh, and the muscles in my shoulders bulking up, have made some shirts feel tight and uncomfortable.

[Kelt]

I am not on T but have had a body redistribution via (very) large weight gain then loss over a period of a decade that coincided with aging from 40 to 50. The resulting combination of changes; gravity, age, settling places, has made it much better it terms of specifically pants fit. What tailors call the 'drop' waist to hip ratio, is now correct. I still have a time of it due to overall stature, being pretty short at 5'5" and having a small frame. It puts me exactly one size smaller that what most stores stock in the mens department. Sometimes I get lucky and sometimes I end up in the boys department. :blink: Even when I find the right size in tops the sleeves are usually 2-3cm too long, fortunately I have a good non-judgmental tailor. Eg, I wear a perfect 32 regular suit, but have to shorten the sleeves. I don't feel like I am a proportional odd ball and the other comments here about sleeve length seem to bear this out.

The OP, thanks for this thread btw, asked about how this makes us/me feel about myself. I found this quote from the original article to be true to my experiences:

Some, like Chase Strangio, 31, a lawyer at the American Civil Liberties Union who identifies as a man, need a suit for work. “For someone not gender-conforming, court is the environment where you feel most vulnerable and want to feel most assertive,” he said. When he tried on his suit, he said, it was the first time his body did not feel wrong. “It sounds ridiculous, because it’s just clothes, but I was almost in tears, because it was the first time I was affirmed by an experience like that. It was thrilling.”

I was not in law but was in a male profession. I had not worn particularly female appearing clothes but when I changed into higher end clothes and went to all suits it helped alot. It coincided with changing my name so that also came into play. I felt much more confident and in control of myself and by extension my environment. This was the early 90s and I don't even think there was a T in the LGB community then so it felt like a big deal to me. I don't think it is a fluke at all that I almost immediately started earning a higher income. It was all about the confidence for me. I don't wear suits anymore but all male clothes and sport jackets are a staple.

I wear what fits me and I'm so glad it's more mainstream now. That said, the changing rooms can still be a variation on the theme of bathroom confusion inverted at times.

[Liam]

I wanted to give a quick bump to the thread, and mention that Lands End (http://www.landsend.com/shop/mens-dress-shirts/-/N-fzl) offers men's dress shirts in three different fits, with not only the specific neck size, you can also order the specific sleeve length, going as short as 32".

[Bad_boi]

?? Not sure I understand the comment. I think dressing appropriately for the audience in question matters more.

An open button shirt over a tee is a comfy way to conceal your chest a bit. The whole dressing in layers thing can help if you don't want to bind super tight. I have bursitis in my shoulder so tight binding isn't healthy for me so its a life saver.

[DapperButch]

I wanted to give a quick bump to the thread, and mention that Lands End (http://www.landsend.com/shop/mens-dress-shirts/-/N-fzl) offers men's dress shirts in three different fits, with not only the specific neck size, you can also order the specific sleeve length, going as short as 32".

This is great, thanks for posting. I need to look into "no iron" shirts. I have never had one before and ironing is not my forte. Also, there has been a shift in the collars of Calvin Klein "dressy casual" shirts I buy. I do not like they way they look. This gives me a reason to broaden my horizons!

ETA: Ok, so I just looked at some of the prices <gulp>. More than I expected from Land's End! I think I will put them on my Christmas list.

[Jar]

I buy off the rack men's clothing and fortunately it usually fits. I always tell my mom (jokingly of course, that she could have married a taller man) BUT I always thank her for not giving me hips. Being short I always have to have pants hemmed and sleeves shortened but fortunately I have an excellent tailor.

I might also mention that I can find sports jackets and suits at Men's Warehouse. They have short coats for shorter guys.

[Jess]

At 5'6 (and shrinking..lol) I have always been able to buy off the rack also sometimes with more luck than other times. Often I find sleeves too long or shoulders hang off a tad much so it is definitely a process to find a "just right" off the rack. Tailoring is a must for a suit in order to feel well fit.


Here are a few tips I use as a vertically challenged dresser:

The Guiding Rule – Always Streamline Your Look

Looking taller is all about getting viewers’ eyes to travel smoothly up your body. It’s pure illusion: the more their eyes have to sweep upward, the taller their brains will register whatever they’re looking at as being.

That means that a shorter man wants to ease and encourage the viewer’s eyes upward towards his face. Visual clutter–such as eye-grabbing stuff on the body–breaks up the impression of height. That means staying away from obvious accessories like big, chunky watches, but it also means keeping an eye out for things as simple as the pockets on your suits and shirts. Something as simple as a pocket flap instead of an unadorned slit pocket can clutter up your appearance and lessen the impression of height.

10 Tips on Dressing Taller

FYI – I put these ten tips in orders of practicality and cost. I realize some of these are beyond some men’s resources or not options worth considering–but I lay them out there so that you can make that decision yourself.

1. Monochromatic Color Themes

Along the same lines as minimizing visual clutter, removing contrasting color from your appearance helps streamline the way you look. Keeping all your clothes within a fairly consistent color theme, especially a dark one, will create an illusion of height. Different color shades are fine–just try to keep it loosely monochrome.

When you do wear different colors or different shades of the same color, try to weight the darker colors toward the bottom half of your body. That way people’s attention starts down near your feet and travels upward. Dark trousers with a lighter shirt create a lengthening effect; a darker shirt with lighter pants shortens your appearance.

2. Wear Vertically-Oriented Patterns

Most people have heard that vertical stripes are “slimming” and horizontal stripes are “widening.” That’s just a simplification of the same visual effect we’ve already been talking about: where people’s eyes go when they look at you. Patterns that run horizontally make you seem wider because the eye wants to follow them naturally out to the sides of your body.

Unbroken vertical stripes are one of the best ways to add an impression of height without seeming to try for it. Dress shirts that increase the perception of height ideally have striping that is narrow enough to not create broad empty spaces of monochrome but wide enough to be visible at a glance. The equal-width alternation of white and colored stripes–often called candystriping–is a good choice.

Textured cloth with a visible up-and-down pattern has the same effect as any other vertical striping, so corduroy or very narrow herringbone weaves are also worth working into the wardrobe. Other than those very definitively vertical textures, however, stick to smoother fabrics where possible — rough textures add the visual clutter you want to avoid.

image-fabrics-short-man-choice


3. Wear Close Fitting Clothing

A loose fit on a short man actually emphasizes his petite frame–it makes him look sloppy, and it signals that he’s too small to find clothing that fits him right. Don’t let your own clothing send this message to the world.

When shopping for menswear, pay close attention to where your clothing sits on your body when you try it on. Most men are used to wearing clothing that is 1 to 2 sizes too large on them, and smaller men who have never given it much attention are some of the worst offenders.

Steer clear of jackets that hang loose in the armpits, even if the sleeves are short enough for your arms, and avoid any trousers with a lot of slack cloth in the crotch. Trust me, this doesn’t make you look more endowed. Instead, that sort of bagginess leads straight to the stereotypical “kid in his father’s suit” look.

Remember that most menswear is deliberately cut loose to accommodate as many body types as possible. Clothing marked small isn’t made for one type of small; it’s often made to try to accommodate shorter men who are anything from stout to round to thin. And the results are rarely flattering.

Savvy short shoppers often find a brand, oftentimes from a particular designer, that consistently suits them. They do this because designer clothing is often built for a narrower variety of body types, and as a result accommodates those limited builds better than the one size made to fit all variety. Designer clothes generally cost a bit more, but carefully watching sales and knowing when and where to shop for your particular size can lead to savings that make buying higher end clothing affordable.

Finally, have a trusted tailor who you can take your clothing to. Ensure he has an understanding of proportion and the needs of your body type, and you’ll find the adjustments he makes can transform your look more than any of the other tips in this article. It’s relatively inexpensive to have sleeves or cuffs shortened; more complicated work like having your trousers slimmed or jacket torso tightened isn’t too expensive either. Having a jacket shortened, or adjusting shoulders on a shirt is often limited by proportion–but again these small adjustments will transform your look from dopey to dashing.

short man dressing taller image
4. Smaller Proportions

Be aware that as a smaller man you won’t always want the exact same proportions in your clothes as other men. For example, it’s traditional to wear a sport coat or suit cut so that a half-inch or so of shirt cuff shows beyond the end of the sleeve. A shorter man, however, wants to pair shirts and jackets so that there’s less of a broad band–as little as a quarter-inch. A sliver of cloth color down around the wrists will look more proportional on shorter arms than ¾ of an inch.

The parts of your clothing that fold over one another contribute a lot to your visual effect. On your upper body, that usually means the shirt collar and the jacket lapel, if a jacket is worn. Try to keep both of those on the narrower side–though be cautious with lapels; jackets with very broad or very wide lapels run the risk of looking dated, depending on when that particular extreme was in fashion.

Collars with shorter points that aim downward help as well. Stay away from anything with an extreme spread (more than 120 degrees) or longer collar points (2.5+ inches), especially when the collar points are angled dramatically outward.

Your necktie should be on the slimmer side as well, particularly if you have a smaller torso; if your torso is very broad, a narrow tie may start to look undersized. However, this is a better problem than overemphasizing the latter.

It may seem like splitting hairs to recommend narrower collar spreads, shorter trouser cuffs (or no cuffs at all), 2 or 1 button jackets, thinner lapels, and pockets closer together on a jacket. But when you start combining all the usual elements of a piece of clothing in smaller proportions, the effects add up. A small difference here, a small improvement there–next thing you know you have a significantly improved look.

Most of these details are things that different companies do in their own style–you don’t need lots of expensive tailoring, just the patience to figure out which brands have the smaller, more vertically-tilted details that work best for you.

5. Wear Attention Grabbing Details Up High

You can keep attention moving up from your feet toward your head by weighting the brightest details at the top of your body. A pocket square or a brightly-colored tie help guide the eye’s motion upward. Just be careful of adding too much clutter all at once. A bright lapel pin on its own is helpful–worn at the same time as a patterned tie and a pocket square, it edges into the distracting category. More casual outfits can utilize details such as epaulets on a shirt’s shoulders or a contrast inner collar on a dress shirt.

Resist the temptation to add a few inches with a hat unless you regularly wear one–if not worn naturally or with confidence it can backfire on the wearer. Some even argue that the visual effect is actually shortening–a hat puts a “lid” on your body and stops the viewer’s gaze dead. I have seen it work both ways. Again, this is an attention-getting detail that takes confidence, practice, and the knowledge of which hat compliments you.

Always keep it simple, vertically-oriented, and limited to one or two extras at most.

6. Wear the Right Clothing

Wear a Jacket – Wearing a sport jacket or suit jacket builds up the shoulders–taller and more pronounced shoulders emphasize height. Use this to your advantage every chance you can and match the jacket with either trousers of the same fabric (suit) or trousers of a similar shade (sport jacket). Again–know how to buy the right type of suit for maximizing height by following the guidelines in this article.

Trousers at the Waist – Shorter men benefit from a longer leg line, and you get a longer trouser leg by wearing the waistband higher. Wear your pants at the natural waist rather than down on the hips which only makes your legs look stubby. Trousers at the natural waist don’t need a belt cinched tight the way that they do on the hips, which helps your middle from looking distractingly pinched. For the best effect, wear trousers without belt loops and use suspenders.

Avoid Shorts and Short-Sleeved Shirts – Short men are short because their limbs are smaller than those of their tall counterparts. Wearing clothing that draws attention to your limbs, especially if you’re big or built, makes you look shorter because your limbs are proportionally more compact. Although not always practical–especially in the summer–a man on the short side should consider linen trousers and lightweight long sleeve shirts he can roll up on the forearm. A classier look that helps create a streamlined appearance.

7. Physically Add Height

Playing around with patterns and collar sizes and details are all good ways to make a combined impression of extra height. But what if you actually want to add real height?

It’s doable. But remember to do this in moderation. Some short men find it useful to wear a heeled shoe, and there are definitely styles that look fine with a half-inch or so of heel on them, but know what you’re buying. Manufacturers that advertise specifically as “for short men” are often slapping chunky heels on styles meant to be worn with a more moderate heel, and the result is eye-catching and tacky. Stick to black pumps for a formal look or heeled boots in more casual situations. And always avoid athletic shoes or regular dress shoes that come with an exaggerated heel–you’ll just end up tripping.

Heel inserts are a matter of personal preference. They add height but can be uncomfortable, and it can be embarrassing to have to take your shoes off in public if you have inserts. Definitely don’t wear them with an already thick-heeled shoe–you’ll end up tilted forward like a woman in high heels.

mens-shoe-lifts
8. Shop Internationally

Mass manufactured clothing is made for specific regions based off taste and average target customer size. As such, American clothing is big; however, there are regions outside the ole USA that make clothing for a smaller demographic. Think Japan & Italy–two countries where style is at the forefront and clothing is manufactured for a man who is much smaller than the average American frame.

The internet has made it possible to get clothing from overseas without a trip yourself–the downside is that international shipping isn’t always cheap and many of the best online stores in Italy or Japan do not have an English storefront. Google translate helps–but it doesn’t translate size, especially when you’re trying to figure out what equals what–inches to centimeters, and then you have to account for brand variation! If you go this route, try to work with a merchant with excellent customer service or a website that gives you exact measurements of the garment you’ll be sent. Start slowly, ensure you get the fit right, and then buy in bulk to save on the shipping!

Ideally though, you’d be able to travel to the country and find the deals yourself, getting a closet full of great clothes and a memorable experience.

9. Visit the Young Man’s Department

There is great clothing to be found in the “Youth” section of American stores. Some styles obviously won’t work on an adult, but there’s a good number of clothing manufacturers who make scaled-down versions of perfectly presentable adult outfits.

The biggest challenge of the Youth/Boys department may turn out to be fit in the chest and stomach. Most adult men wearing youth sizes need an XL or a L, which have recently started to be made looser and looser. “XL” for a child carries an expectation of weight as well as height, which wasn’t as true ten or fifteen years ago–you may need to seek out long-established and more old-fashioned manufacturers to find youth-sized clothing that’s long enough for a short adult and also not cut for a very heavyset kid.

An added bonus is that these clothes are oftentimes value priced. If you’re small enough to fit clothing marketed for children and young adults, it’s worth the minor hit to the pride to browse the children’s section of a few high-quality clothing or department stores.

10. Go Custom or Buy from a Specialty Store

Seeking out a custom men’s clothier or short clothing specialist who can help optimize your look is an option many men take. They realize a second set of eyes and years of experience dealing with hundreds of men with similar problems gives a clothier expert status; the best study their craft and can build entire wardrobes for their clients that not only make them look taller but are interchangeable and functional for maximum wear.

Finally, keep your look natural. By this I mean you have to be comfortable in your clothing – wear IT, don’t let it wear YOU. There are a lot of tips in this post…DO NOT implement all of them into a single outfit. Instead pick a few and apply them in moderation over the next few months. Keep the ones that work, discard the tips that don’t.

And remember that being a sharp dressed man is all about confidence. Know who you are and have fun expressing that individuality with your personal style.

[Linus]

For those that might want to see examples in Jess' post see here: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/06/07/dressing-taller-short-men/

[Linus]

An open button shirt over a tee is a comfy way to conceal your chest a bit. The whole dressing in layers thing can help if you don't want to bind super tight. I have bursitis in my shoulder so tight binding isn't healthy for me so its a life saver.


Ah.. that makes a lot more sense. :)

[DapperButch]

For those that might want to see examples in Jess' post see here: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/06/07/dressing-taller-short-men/

Thanks for posting the site the article came from. Although I am relatively comfortable with my height (5'9"), the above site has lots of good stuff on it (although some a bit amusing re: the whole concept of "manliness")!

[Kelt]

For those that might want to see examples in Jess' post see here: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/06/07/dressing-taller-short-men/

I love this site! I've been making it a Sunday read for almost 5 years. For those unfamiliar with it, they have partnered with a fellow named Antonio who has a site 'real men real style' and he guest posts a lot of the attire articles.

Something that was added a year or two back is a series of visual cards called "Outfitted and Equipped (http://http://www.artofmanliness.com/category/outfitted-equipped/)" which I really enjoy showing suggested outfits and gear that are event specific. Another recent article (by Antonio) called "How to build an interchangeable wardrobe (http://www.artofmanliness.com/2013/11/14/build-interchangeable-wardrobe/)" is a good pieced on budget/simple/good quality combining.

[Jess]

For those that might want to see examples in Jess' post see here: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/06/07/dressing-taller-short-men/


Thanks Linus! I was pretty tired when I posted and totally forgot to link the site/ reference. I very much appreciate you adding it. It's a great site for a plethora of interesting tid bits regarding being a gentleman.

[Jess]

Thanks for posting the site the article came from. Although I am relatively comfortable with my height (5'9"), the above site has lots of good stuff on it (although some a bit amusing re: the whole concept of "manliness")!


I actually appreciate their concept of manliness in that I feel most often like a "Retro-Butch"... I carry hankies and still practice most of the etiquette of the more artful men of my grandfather's era.
They do try rather diligently to blend "manliness" and chivalry with the act of practicing equality and feminism, even. Yes, sometimes manners can seem to be disregarding feminism in lieu of appreciating the divine feminine, however, I think they do a great job in correcting themselves when they do step over that line.
It is a hard balancing act at times, knowing when the feminine wishes to be a princess, a queen or a warrior and knowing exactly how to address all of those magnificent qualities of the feminine woman.

[Yew]

This is a great topic, as to me, clothing is critical to accurate (re)presentation. I wear men's clothes exclusively and have not tried specialty clothiers due to location, cost and/or lack of need to hide 'curves'. I am 5'8" and built rather straight, with an athletic body- this is a real blessing since I can go buy practically any men's clothes off any rack and they fit correctly. Fitted, tailored or 'slim' cuts of shirts and pants work very well for me. I prefer a look that is more classically dapper than the plaid shirt/studded belt looks (I did that when I was a 'boy") that are out there. I think ties, pocket squares, killer socks, sweaters, brogues, sports jackets and suits when I dress nice or for work, and add in some 501's; classic, old school, adult, some edge. Sites like DapperQ have great examples of queer style; H & M fits me very well and someday when I'm loaded with dough, I will be spending it at Brooks Brothers!

I really love seeing femme women in dresses and put a vision in my head of "How Do I Appear To *Her?", whoever she may be, when I am dressing; this matters to me because it a) keeps me well dressed and b) today may be my lucky day

[Rockinonahigh]

Finding clothes that I like isn't a problem,the issue is i'm 5'5'' and portly to boot right in the waist so I usely end up getting a 2x then have the sleves taken up but the shoulders sometimes' dosen't fit right because of the seam that drops off the shoulder.I am loseing weight so it wont be long till I can button the xlarge all the way down comfortably.When I wan't a shirt or artical of clotheing to fit I have to go somewhere and have to altered,wall mart or places like that don't do much for me cause I like better quality clothes than they have when I can afford them on sale,sometimes I get lucky to find something at the good will store that's in good shape.I have two suits as well as a few dress shirts along with a couple of blazers so I have a fair choice.I haven't bought anything lately cause I don't have much chance to dress up much for a while cause most places I go to jeans and whatever shirt I pick out work just fine.

[Yew]

I have been on T just over a year, the first half on Androgel then switched to injections post hysto. I am relatively thin but muscular...wiry, I guess. In the past year I have gained about 10# but have virtually lost my ass, while my shoulders have broadened by about 1" overall. Any belly softness that was there is gone- a 6 pack is just a slight effort to achieve. I noticed the shoulder growth mostly after putting on a men's small dress shirt early this fall and finding it tight and the seams riding up high rather than where they belong; that was great because I didn't exercise much after the surgery in July and was afraid I'd waste away! The thigh area called 'saddle bags' is gone too though I never had much, it has really straightened out. My shoes have gotten a little tighter and I readjusted my ball caps to fit a little larger too. I have worn men's clothes easily always but do struggle to find 29x32 or longer pants that don't have saggy asses :)





It would be interesting to hear the experiences of FTM/transguys who are on testosterone. I would like to hear how the fat redistribution away from their hips may have improved their ability to buy their pants "off the rack" (if at all).

[DapperButch]

I have been on T just over a year, the first half on Androgel then switched to injections post hysto. I am relatively thin but muscular...wiry, I guess. In the past year I have gained about 10# but have virtually lost my ass, while my shoulders have broadened by about 1" overall. Any belly softness that was there is gone- a 6 pack is just a slight effort to achieve. I noticed the shoulder growth mostly after putting on a men's small dress shirt early this fall and finding it tight and the seams riding up high rather than where they belong; that was great because I didn't exercise much after the surgery in July and was afraid I'd waste away! The thigh area called 'saddle bags' is gone too though I never had much, it has really straightened out. My shoes have gotten a little tighter and I readjusted my ball caps to fit a little larger too. I have worn men's clothes easily always but do struggle to find 29x32 or longer pants that don't have saggy asses :)

Interesting! T is an amazingly powerful hormone. Thanks for posting.

[Jet]

why clothes to define?

[Yew]

It certainly is, and a true blessing for me, too!

Interesting! T is an amazingly powerful hormone. Thanks for posting.

[Jaques]

i wear whats comfortable at home and no longer worry about clothing too much, I transitioned in 2006 physically, though have been living and dressing as male since l998..............in England its fashionable to wear tacky Christmas sweaters this time of year - I love them as they remind me of the ones my mum knitted when I was a kid - .in fact im now thinking of a whole new career posing for knitting patterns, lol!

http://http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n175/Jaquesalston/knittingpattern3.jpg (http://s112.photobucket.com/user/Jaquesalston/media/knittingpattern3.jpg.html)

[JDeere]

I buy whatever I can in the men's section and try to work with it. The only deal is I don't dress up in expensive clothes/designer duds. The furthest I go is khaki pants with cowboy boots and a nice T shirt or a polo.

I know I can't be the only guy who doesn't dress up?

[DapperButch]

I buy whatever I can in the men's section and try to work with it. The only deal is I don't dress up in expensive clothes/designer duds. The furthest I go is khaki pants with cowboy boots and a nice T shirt or a polo.

I know I can't be the only guy who doesn't dress up?

Nope, you actually are. ;)

I have to dress up for work every day.

[JDeere]

Nope, you actually are. ;)

I have to dress up for work every day.

I figured I was the only one lol :|

[Bèsame*]

I figured I was the only one lol :|

psst... Just add a nice white button down shirt :)

[firegal]

Clothes don't make who I am .... But they ARE part of who I am...

And I do like me some good looking clothes!

Yanno we are not alone! No matter how we dress! Keep up the fashions bros!

[JDeere]

psst... Just add a nice white button down shirt :)

LOL not my style though, remember I am country :fastdraq:

[Bèsame*]

LOL not my style though, remember I am country :fastdraq:

and?

http://blog.gactv.com/files/2009/09/georgestrait3_h.jpg

[JDeere]

LOL not country like him by any means! George however is a good role model.

[ProfPacker]

I just went to Macy's because I like the selection of different brands. I just bought a black slim fit blazer. I bought a great navy country like front button sweater at H&M male that I plan to wear with crisp button down shirt. I am only buying men's clothes now and once I find a brand and size that looks good I look on ebay

[Daktari]

What is it about those button down collars you chaps like?

I don't see folks wearing that style over here, not in the bft community anyway...or didn't when I was going out often enough to know, doesn't look to have changed according to fb.

I have one black Ben Sherman oxford shirt that looks great with a Death Kitty tie but on the whole I like a cutaway collar w/collar stays.

It's not a challenge or a comment on you lot liking and wearing them, just an enquiry as to why.

[DapperButch]

What is it about those button down collars you chaps like?

I don't see folks wearing that style over here, not in the bft community anyway...or didn't when I was going out often enough to know, doesn't look to have changed according to fb.

I have one black Ben Sherman oxford shirt that looks great with a Death Kitty tie but on the whole I like a cutaway collar w/collar stays.

It's not a challenge or a comment on you lot liking and wearing them, just an enquiry as to why.



It is a regional thing, I think. No one wears them here in the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast where I am. A very old style.

I actually did like the look of them on me, though. For some reason the collar close to the neck looks good.

[Liam]

What is it about those button down collars you chaps like?

I don't see folks wearing that style over here, not in the bft community anyway...or didn't when I was going out often enough to know, doesn't look to have changed according to fb.

I have one black Ben Sherman oxford shirt that looks great with a Death Kitty tie but on the whole I like a cutaway collar w/collar stays.

It's not a challenge or a comment on you lot liking and wearing them, just an enquiry as to why.



I've no clue; I have never liked them.

[Kelt]

I tend to favor a point or semi-spread, I think of the button down as being oddly more casual looking than something with stays.

Anymore I have rare occasion to wear anything more than sort of 'outdoors' clothing which is a shame, but reality. :blink:

[GeekBear]

I figured I was the only one lol :|

you're not man, I'll grab a nice pair of kakhis and a polo or button down shirt if I'm going somewhere nice. Most of the time I'm in wrangler jeans and boots.

[JDeere]

you're not man, I'll grab a nice pair of kakhis and a polo or button down shirt if I'm going somewhere nice. Most of the time I'm in wrangler jeans and boots.

Yay I'm not alone, hot damn! I'm not much for classic or fancy button downs, god knows I might have to wear one for my sisters wedding. I find what is comfortable for me. I guess maybe clothes don't make the man, it should be his integrity and personality.

[rocky 781]

I agree jar mens warehouse is my fav place to buy suits

[rocky 781]

I really enjoy a banded shirt or shirts with French I don't wear polo shirt I usually wear long shirts all year around

[JDeere]

I don't think the clothes make the man! It is what his heart and personality say! That is just my opinion!

[Rufusboi]

I am Goodwill shopper myself.

If it costs more than $5.00 I will not buy it.

[JDeere]

Nothing wrong with being a thrift shopper. I don't spend a ton of money on just one clothing item.

However a special occasion is coming up so I have to spend a bit more for one item.

[blueboi_dragon]

I'm country and I wear wranglers and the t-shirts and cowboy boots. When I wasn't on t I was buying in the men's off the rack and they fit weird but now that I'm on t they fit me so much better but I gained so much weight being on t and being disabled I had to go up a few sizes. Plus I'm large in the chest and I haven't had surgery yet I have to buy 2x shirts just to fit over my chest.

[JDeere]

Welcome Blueboi_dragon!

I hear ya about the big chest, I cant hide mine yet but I am pre everything right now due to other health issues.

Glad to see more country guys in the thread!

[DapperButch]

I'm country and I wear wranglers and the t-shirts and cowboy boots. When I wasn't on t I was buying in the men's off the rack and they fit weird but now that I'm on t they fit me so much better but I gained so much weight being on t and being disabled I had to go up a few sizes. Plus I'm large in the chest and I haven't had surgery yet I have to buy 2x shirts just to fit over my chest.

How long have you been on testosterone? I have only been on it for 6 months (most of that time low dose), and my upper body was quick to bulk up (without strength training, even), larger shoulders and the like.

Although I have had top surgery, I have needed to go up in shirt size. I am not sure what exactly is going on with my middle/core area, but I am not fitting into my pants. It is hard to tell what is larger. I know this sounds weird, but I don't think that my gut is that much bigger. Anyway, I have gained 15 lbs and have had to go up 1.5 pants size. I am sure the majority of that is muscle increase, though.

I also don't know how much is what weight. I am taking cypionate testosterone, which I know carries water at the beginning. Problem is I had to drop to low dose after I had moved up to regular dose (now I am back up again), so part of this is my body not knowing which hormone it is to work off of.

Anyway, so far I have only bought one pair of jeans and I am wearing the same couple pair of dress pants to work because I really want to try to see what happens. I already needed to move up in size of jeans (like a year ago), but these are tighter than they would have been pre T.

Anyway, I have a number of nice, expensive dress pants I have to toss due to the change.

Fortunately, I have always been able to buy off the rack, in both men's shirts and pants, even prior to top surgery. I had a larger chest, but the years of binding kept them flat, so I didn't have to buy larger and then have to get the arms shortened/shoulder seams moved up to the shoulders.

[JDeere]

I hate shopping for clothes now! I used to love to shop but I will wear what I have till they wear out!

I am sick of shirts either don't fit due to being top heavy or they don't fit around the waist!

I know I can't be the only one!

[blueboi_dragon]

I've been on T for two years now and still trying to get money up for my surgery for I'm fighting for my disability as well for both mental health and just plain health reasons. So with just one income in my home it makes it very hard luckily I don't have rent or morage (spelling) because I bought my house 10 years ago and paid it off already.

But I too hate shopping for clothes. It's like they think everyone wants to have sparkly crap on them. When really I want a nice pair of blue jeans without the sparkle and a t-shirt and boots that's it.

[JDeere]

I can't wait to get back into Wranglers like I used to, the good ole cowboy cut relaxed fit, NO SPARKLY STUFF jeans.

I used to love shopping but now I don't, I dread it cuz I have gained a bit of weight and it costs so dang much.

[DapperButch]

I can't wait to get back into Wranglers like I used to, the good ole cowboy cut relaxed fit, NO SPARKLY STUFF jeans.

I used to love shopping but now I don't, I dread it cuz I have gained a bit of weight and it costs so dang much.

I am lucky because we have outlet stores of my favorite brands just a bit over an hour away. Otherwise, I do online shopping.

Today, though I am going to the "mall". Now that I am living as male at work, I need to ensure I "pass" with new people. I need to start wearing ties. Ties will seal the deal that I am male if someone does wonder. I am thinking in about 4 weeks my voice will be low enough that there won't be a question.

I have gained weight and my shoulders have broadened, so I need new shirts and pants, too. I have been wearing pretty much the same size (in both), since I was in my 20's, so I am not thrilled with this. I am going to try to get away with only buying a couple pairs of pants as I don't know where my body is going to go next with taking T. It is possible some of it is just water retention and this inflated stomach will shrink a bit.

I just got a new haircut, something shorter. It is funny because I used to have to be careful that my hair wasn't too short Pre-T so that I could "pass" as female at work, now I need to be seen the other way! Pretty funny.

[DapperButch]

https://www.tomboytoes.com/

[Logicaly]

If anyone likes shopping at Kohl's, I have found that the Helix button down shirts in the casual mens section seem to fit really well. I have found I also don't need to bind while wearing them due to their fit they are able to hide my chest. It works our rather nicely.

Same games for the Levi's stretching jeans that they are now selling. Granted Kohl's can be a bit pricey, the fit is very nice.

[EnderD_503]

I'm interested to know from the trans guys how the way you dress makes you feel in public. What do you prefer to wear? Do you purchase custom clothing like the kind mentioned in the link or do you make it work with men's clothes?

I thought this thread topic might prompt a really insightful discussion.

(I know I'm a femme starting this thread but I do love trans guys and male-identified butches so I hope you don't mind.) :blush:

The clothes I wear can definitely impact whether or not I feel self-conscious. Generally I'm a pretty casual person. My preferred "dress code" is cargo shorts and band shirts, or cargo shorts with t-shirt and open (usually) plaid button down. I'm not really into dressing formally and it makes me feel a bit uncomfortably and uneasy, not myself. At work luckily with my job I'm fine wearing shorts/pants and a plain t-shirt, plain longsleeve, open button down or something like that. Plus the same boots I wear everywhere (which I need to change soon cause they're cracking and heel's been worn away pretty bad thanks to 7 years of wearing them in pretty much every context that isn't super formal or the gym).

If I dress formal its just dress pants, dress shirt, and same dress shoes I've had since I was 16 (aka 15 years) :seeingstars: I pretty much only have two dress shirts right now, one burgundy/black striped with long sleeves, another plain black with short sleeves. Only really wear the burgundy/black stripe one cause its really soft and light. Not really into ties or that sort of thing.

I once bought a super nice black blazer from H&M which was the only time I really felt good in one, but after the event I ended up returning it for the refund cause I was low on cash. Now wishing that I'd kept it though because I'm going to another wedding soon and would prefer to have one. Really regret that, heh. I would love to find another one like that, but can't even remember the size.

As far as off the rack vs tailored, I've only ever bought off the rack. I'm around 5'7 so I don't find I've ever had too much trouble fitting into regular men's clothes. Sometimes something might be a bit long, but I don't really mind much or notice much.

I know I can't be the only guy who doesn't dress up?

Nope you're not the only one! Only time I've really dressed up in the last five years has been for a wedding, funerals, and my partner's graduation. Otherwise I can get away with being pretty casual...which is how I like it lol

What is it about those button down collars you chaps like?

I don't see folks wearing that style over here, not in the bft community anyway...or didn't when I was going out often enough to know, doesn't look to have changed according to fb.

I have one black Ben Sherman oxford shirt that looks great with a Death Kitty tie but on the whole I like a cutaway collar w/collar stays.

It's not a challenge or a comment on you lot liking and wearing them, just an enquiry as to why.


No button down shirts? I can understand not wearing them casually, but what else would you wear in a formal setting since most formal shirts are button down? Edit: I just looked up an "Oxford shirt" and apparently these are also button downs. I'm confused now lol

Anyway with the casual button downs, I dunno I think I'm just stuck in the 90's or something. I grew up in the late 80's and 90's when plaid button downs open over a t-shirt were pretty much the default shirt. Plus for whatever reason Canadians like plaid button downs lol I don't wear them as much in the summer, but I find them pretty convenient for fall/spring/a warmer winter.

[JDeere]

I can't tell you the last time I got really dressed up for something because to me dressing up is formal wear like a tux.

I wear khakis and a nice shirt to like funerals or other things but mainly I stick to my staples.

I just recently bought myself my first short sleeved pearl snap western shirt, it fits great and I am happy to finally be comfortable in clothing.

[cork1961]

I'm usually fairly casual, though I do love a button down collar and tie for work.

Bought a custom suit deal on ebay a few years ago for a great price. Sent all my measurements to Hong Kong and got a really nice wool suit. Wasn't perfect, but needed minimal tailoring here. For me, clothes that fit well definitely make me more confident, especially on more formal occasions.

[DapperButch]

I'm usually fairly casual, though I do love a button down collar and tie for work.

Bought a custom suit deal on ebay a few years ago for a great price. Sent all my measurements to Hong Kong and got a really nice wool suit. Wasn't perfect, but needed minimal tailoring here. For me, clothes that fit well definitely make me more confident, especially on more formal occasions.

Now that I have transitioned, I have very much loved adding the tie to my work ensemble.

[Dean Thoreau]

I have purchased and worn suits for years; purchasing one today was quite different.
First now that 1/2 top surgery is done ( removal) my chest issues no longer exist and I can buy one that is not custom made. Binding was never possible even with ace bandages and duct tape I only ever got down to a maybe D.

So today I bought myself a 3 piece Harris tweed brown with matching hat and scarf.and tie... and the tailoring needed was minimal!
Size 48. Reg jacket with just a tad taken in on the back.... taken in!!!!
At 6’ trousers have never been an issue, and oh I got well ordered 2 shirts to go with it... one a muted yellow and the other a soft beige . Now for the new shoes..... heading to Nordstrom rack they have a sale.
I have been wanting this for years and promised myself I would buy it after top surgery. So I saved my pennies.
My favorite clothing store has been and will continue to be Good Will ... I picked up 2 Armani shirts and a nice white dress shirt with Nordstrom label for 2 dollars each. I am known for my cheapness just ask any woman I dated in past 30 years. 😀
Now that I am finally starting to see the person inside me stare back at me in the mirror and when I had that suit on.... all I was missing was the well trimmed beard. Time to spoil me for a while; and put myself first.

[Canela]

The hubs and I went to a men's store in downtown San Antonio a few weeks ago to buy him a suit. He was soooo cute, like a kid in a candy store! He's dressed up before but never with the whole ensemble. This was his "Birthday" present. (I almost said Birthday Suit, lol)
We had it tailored and he's in heaven. He loves wearing ties with his shirts. too.

I love to see him sooo happy with how he looks. His transitioning is giving him a 'stache and beard too, so he's really evolving into the image of himself he's always known he'd be!

So I'd say yes, the clothes help quite a bit.

[CowboyJ]

After being on T for some time I did experience some distribution changes :). While at 5'9", I can buy from the rack and it works just fine. I wear a lot of wranglers and t-shirts when I am not working so no issue there. I have had some suits and tuxedos tailor made, those are the ones I wear to extremely important events but other than that a suit off the rack will suffice. I do think something a lot of guys forget is a great pair of shoes or boots. They have so many great looking socks now I do get sucked into buying those too..lol. I prefer silk ties in basic colors but do have some fun ones as well :0. I agree with some of the others that said I want to keep in mind the woman I might be going out with and dress to please her but if I am not comfortable, neither of us would be comfortable and I would expect her to feel the same....if you look good you feel good!!!:praying:

[JDeere]

I still stand by my last statement. I feel its his personality, his character, etc makes him the man he is. Clothes are just materialistic to me.

[cathexis]

Just curious if you've ever tried those ascots with pin.
Have always thought them attractive, but nothing to wear
them with myself.

Definitely agree with you about the footwear.
Nothing beats a good pair of wing tips or leather inlay
on pointed toe Western boots. And, yeah I have a
sock fetish too. There are so many good ones out there now.

[DapperButch]

I still stand by my last statement. I feel its his personality, his character, etc makes him the man he is. Clothes are just materialistic to me.

:|

Well, yeah, but the thread isn't to discuss if clothes makes the man, or questions if clothes makes the man....it is simply about trans men and what makes them feel good to wear. What you are talking about is a different topic....so I'm confused.

cathexis, I have a hard time getting myself to buy any dress shoes besides wingtips...oh, how I love them so...

As others have said, I am lucky that I have always been able to buy "off the rack", even pre-T/ pre top surgery. I do think one should still take their suits to a tailor to really "hone in" the fit, even if they can buy off the rack.

[homoe]

I saw this on Facebook and thought I would share it here:

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/01/nyregion/custom-suits-to-make-transgender-and-female-clients-feel-handsome.html?_r=1&

I'm interested to know from the trans guys how the way you dress makes you feel in public. What do you prefer to wear? Do you purchase custom clothing like the kind mentioned in the link or do you make it work with men's clothes?

I thought this thread topic might prompt a really insightful discussion.

(I know I'm a femme starting this thread but I do love trans guys and male-identified butches so I hope you don't mind.) :blush:
Suited, A 2016 HBO documentary
A behind-the-scenes look at the Brooklyn tailoring company Bindle and Keep might also be helpful in this conversation! I would say the sheer look of happiness and contentment on these folks faces says it all!